---
The Battlefield of Gods and Mortals
The air grew heavy, suffocating. The sky darkened, consumed by Ikigai's true form—his god form, though incomplete, still radiated a terrifying pressure.
His six arms, now fully extended, each wielded a different weapon, dripping with shadow energy. His blindfold was gone, revealing pupils that seemed like miniature voids, swallowing all light.
Wukong's instincts screamed at him.
This… was a god's battle form.
But it was imperfect—his human vessel was struggling to contain it.
"Tch. You're pushing your limits, huh?" Wukong grinned, cracking his knuckles despite his injuries.
Ikigai smirked darkly. "Even in this weakened state… a god stands above all."
Then—
He vanished.
---
A Clash Beyond Speed
Wukong barely had time to react before Ikigai was upon him—six arms striking simultaneously, each attack carrying enough force to shatter mountains.
CLANG! BOOM! CRACK!
Each blow was deflected at the last second, Wukong's enhanced reflexes barely keeping up.
He dodged one strike—only for a second blade to pierce his side.
"GHHH—!"
Blood splattered the ground.
Ikigai's speed was unreal—even with parasite magic boosting Wukong's body, he was still a step behind.
Then—
A third arm grabbed Wukong by the face and slammed him into the ground.
BOOM!
The impact sent shockwaves across the battlefield, shattering the earth beneath them.
---
The Vessel's Weakness
Ikigai stood over Wukong, his expression cold, merciless.
"Struggle all you want. It's pointless."
But Wukong, despite the pain, grinned up at him.
"You're sweating, Six-Armed Bastard."
Ikigai narrowed his eyes—and realized.
His human vessel… was breaking down.
Using his god form for too long had started to fracture the mortal body he inhabited.
His movements weren't as sharp. His breathing was heavier.
Wukong laughed, wiping the blood off his chin.
"So, what's the plan? Keep this up until you burn that body out?"
Ikigai clenched his jaw. He knew the risks.
But he refused to lose.
---
Wukong's Last Gamble
Wukong forced himself up, golden aura flickering weakly. His parasite magic writhed, trying to mend his wounds.
"5% isn't enough." He muttered.
Then…
He took a deep breath—
And pushed himself further.
The curse screamed against him, trying to suppress his power. His veins burned, his body felt like it was ripping apart.
But he needed more.
"Just a little more…!"
His aura exploded outward, shattering the ground beneath him. His golden eyes flared with newfound intensity.
Ikigai tensed.
This was—
"6%." Wukong whispered, grinning despite the agony.
---
The True Battle Begins
Ikigai's godly aura flared, and Wukong's golden light blazed even brighter.
Their eyes met.
And then—
They clashed again, their battle shaking the heavens themselves.
---
To Be Continued…